Medical device with telescoping sealing assembly

ABSTRACT

Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example system for delivering an implantable medical device includes a handle member including a seal assembly, wherein the seal assembly includes an outer sheath seal assembly coupled to an outer sheath, the outer sheath including a curved portion, the outer sheath seal assembly being translatable relative to the handle. The seal assembly also includes a first fixed seal assembly fixed relative to the handle, the first fixed seal assembly including a first alignment surface and a compression shaft coupled to the first fixed seal assembly. Additionally, first alignment surface is designed to align the compression shaft with at least a portion of the outer sheath.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/663,006, filed Apr. 26, 2018, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure pertains to medical devices, and methods for manufacturing medical devices. More particularly, the present disclosure pertains to medical devices including a telescoping seal assembly designed to prevent fluid leakage within the medical device.

BACKGROUND

A wide variety of intracorporeal medical devices have been developed for medical use, for example, intravascular use. Some of these devices include guidewires, catheters, and the like. These devices are manufactured by any one of a variety of different manufacturing methods and may be used according to any one of a variety of methods. Of the known medical devices and methods, each has certain advantages and disadvantages. There is an ongoing need to provide alternative medical devices as well as alternative methods for manufacturing and using medical devices.

BRIEF SUMMARY

This disclosure provides design, material, manufacturing method, and use alternatives for medical devices. An example system for delivering an implantable medical device includes a handle member including a seal assembly, wherein the seal assembly includes an outer sheath seal assembly coupled to an outer sheath, the outer sheath seal assembly being translatable relative to the handle. The seal assembly also includes a first fixed seal assembly fixed relative to the handle, the first fixed seal assembly including a first alignment surface and a compression shaft coupled to the first fixed seal assembly. Additionally, first alignment surface is designed to align the compression shaft with at least a portion of the outer sheath.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the first fixed seal assembly is positioned proximal of the outer sheath seal assembly.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the seal assembly further includes an actuation seal assembly positioned proximal of the first fixed seal assembly, the actuation seal assembly translatable relative to the handle, and wherein actuation of the actuation seal assembly is designed to shift the implantable medical device between a first position and a second expanded position.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the seal assembly further includes a second fixed seal assembly fixed relative to the handle and positioned proximal of the actuation seal assembly.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the outer sheath includes a curved portion, and wherein the first alignment surface is designed to align the compression shaft with the curved portion of the outer sheath.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the outer sheath includes a projection, wherein the projection is aligned with the curved portion of the outer sheath, and wherein the outer sheath seal assembly includes a recess designed to engage with the projection.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the outer sheath seal assembly includes a first seal, and wherein the first seal is disposed along an outer surface of the outer sheath.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the compression shaft extends at least partially within a lumen of the outer sheath seal assembly.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the outer sheath seal assembly includes a second seal, and wherein the second seal is disposed along an outer surface of the compression shaft.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the system further includes an actuation shaft coupled to the actuation seal assembly, and wherein the actuation shaft extends at least partially within a lumen of the first fixed seal assembly.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the first fixed seal assembly includes a third seal, and wherein the third seal is disposed along an outer surface of the actuation shaft.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the system further includes a guidewire shaft coupled to the second fixed seal assembly, and wherein the guidewire shaft extends at least partially within a lumen of the actuation seal assembly.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the actuation seal assembly includes a fourth seal, and wherein the fourth seal is disposed along an outer surface of the guidewire shaft.

Another system for delivering an implantable medical device includes:

a handle member including a telescoping seal assembly, wherein the telescoping seal assembly includes:

-   -   an outer sheath seal assembly coupled to an outer sheath, the         outer sheath covering at least a portion of the implantable         medical device, the outer sheath seal assembly being         translatable relative to the handle;     -   a first fixed seal assembly including a first alignment surface,         the first fixed seal assembly being fixed relative to the         handle;     -   a compression shaft coupled to the first fixed seal assembly;     -   an actuation seal assembly translatable relative to the handle;         and     -   an actuation shaft coupled to the actuation seal assembly;

wherein the actuation shaft is axially aligned with the compression shaft;

wherein the first alignment surface is designed to align the compression shaft with at least a portion of the outer sheath.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the actuation seal assembly is designed to shift the implantable medical device between a first position and a second expanded position.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the outer sheath includes a curved portion, and wherein the first alignment surface is designed to align the compression shaft with the curved portion of the outer sheath.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the outer sheath includes a projection, wherein the projection is aligned with the curved portion of the outer sheath, and wherein the outer sheath seal assembly includes a recess designed to engage the projection.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein the first fixed seal assembly is positioned proximal of the outer sheath seal assembly, wherein the actuation seal assembly is positioned proximal of the first fixed seal assembly, and wherein a second fixed seal assembly is positioned proximal of the actuation seal assembly.

Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments above, wherein translation of the outer sheath seal assembly is designed to uncover at least a portion of the implantable medical device.

A method of manufacturing a medical device, the method comprising:

-   -   aligning a first catheter shaft to a handle member, wherein the         first catheter shaft includes a curved portion and a projection,         wherein the projection is aligned with the curved portion;     -   positioning the projection within a recess of an outer sheath         seal assembly, the outer sheath seal assembly translatable to         the handle member;     -   aligning a second catheter shaft to the handle member, wherein         the second catheter shaft is coupled to a first seal body, and         wherein the first seal body includes a first alignment surface;     -   aligning the first alignment surface to a recess in the handle,         wherein the recess is designed to mate with the alignment         surface; and     -   wherein aligning the second catheter shaft to the handle member         aligns the second catheter shaft with the curved portion of the         first catheter shaft.

The above summary of some embodiments is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the present disclosure. The Figures, and Detailed Description, which follow, more particularly exemplify these embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a side view of an example medical device system;

FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system;

FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system;

FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system;

FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system;

FIG. 5A is a side view of an example coupling component;

FIG. 5B is a is a side view of another example coupling component;

FIG. 5C is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system along line 5C-5C of FIG. 5;

FIG. 5D is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system;

FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system;

FIG. 6A is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system along line 6A-6A of FIG. 6;

FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system along line 8-8 of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is another example cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system along line 8-8 of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system;

FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an example medical device delivery system.

While the disclosure is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the disclosure to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the following defined terms, these definitions shall be applied, unless a different definition is given in the claims or elsewhere in this specification.

All numeric values are herein assumed to be modified by the term “about”, whether or not explicitly indicated. The term “about” generally refers to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value (e.g., having the same function or result). In many instances, the terms “about” may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers within that range (e.g. 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5).

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

It is noted that references in the specification to “an embodiment”, “some embodiments”, “other embodiments”, etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include one or more particular features, structures, and/or characteristics. However, such recitations do not necessarily mean that all embodiments include the particular features, structures, and/or characteristics. Additionally, when particular features, structures, and/or characteristics are described in connection with one embodiment, it should be understood that such features, structures, and/or characteristics may also be used connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described unless clearly stated to the contrary.

The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings in which similar elements in different drawings are numbered the same. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict illustrative embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Diseases and/or medical conditions that impact the cardiovascular system are prevalent throughout the world. Traditionally, treatment of the cardiovascular system was often conducted by directly accessing the impacted part of the body. For example, treatment of a blockage in one or more of the coronary arteries was traditionally treated using coronary artery bypass surgery. As can be readily appreciated, such therapies are rather invasive to the patient and require significant recovery times and/or treatments. More recently, less invasive therapies have been developed. For example, therapies have been developed which allow a blocked coronary artery to be accessed and treated via a percutaneous catheter (e.g., angioplasty). Such therapies have gained wide acceptance among patients and clinicians.

Some relatively common medical conditions may include or be the result of inefficiency, ineffectiveness, or complete failure of one or more of the valves within the heart. For example, failure of the aortic valve or the mitral valve can have a serious effect on a human and could lead to serious health condition and/or death if not dealt with properly. Treatment of defective heart valves poses other challenges in that the treatment often requires the repair or outright replacement of the defective valve. Such therapies may be highly invasive to the patient. Disclosed herein are medical devices that may be used for delivering a medical device to a portion of the cardiovascular system in order to diagnose, treat, and/or repair the system. At least some of the medical devices disclosed herein may be used to deliver and implant a replacement heart valve (e.g., a replacement aortic valve, replacement mitral valve, etc.). In addition, the devices disclosed herein may deliver the replacement heart valve percutaneously and, thus, may be much less invasive to the patient. The devices disclosed herein may also provide a number of additional desirable features and benefits as described in more detail below.

The figures illustrate selected components and/or arrangements of a medical device system 10, shown schematically in FIG. 1 for example. It should be noted that in any given figure, some features of the medical device system 10 may not be shown, or may be shown schematically, for simplicity. Additional details regarding some of the components of the medical device system 10 may be illustrated in other figures in greater detail. A medical device system 10 may be used to deliver and/or deploy a variety of medical devices to a number of locations within the anatomy. In at least some embodiments, the medical device system 10 may include a replacement heart valve delivery system (e.g., a replacement aortic valve delivery system) that can be used for percutaneous delivery of a medical implant 16 (shown in the detailed view of FIG. 1), such as a replacement/prosthetic heart valve. This, however, is not intended to be limiting as the medical device system 10 may also be used for other interventions including valve repair, valvuloplasty, delivery of an implantable medical device (e.g., such as a stent, graft, etc.), and the like, or other similar interventions.

The medical device system 10 may generally be described as a catheter system that includes an outer sheath 12, an inner catheter 14 extending at least partially through a lumen of the outer sheath 12, and a medical implant 16 (e.g., a replacement heart valve implant) which may be coupled to the inner catheter 14 and disposed within a lumen of the outer sheath 12 during delivery of the medical implant 16. In some embodiments, a medical device handle 17 may be disposed at a proximal end of the outer sheath 12 and/or the inner catheter 14 and may include one or more actuation mechanisms associated therewith. In other words, one or more tubular members (e.g., the outer sheath 12, the inner catheter 14, etc.) may extend distally from the medical device handle 17. In general, the medical device handle 17 may be designed to manipulate the position of the outer sheath 12 relative to the inner catheter 14 and/or aid in the deployment of the medical implant 16.

It can be appreciated that the medical device system 10 may be designed such that the handle 17 may actuate one or more components of the medical device system 10 either manually and/or electrically (via one or more motors positioned internally and/or externally to the handle 17). In other words, it is contemplated that, in some instances, a clinician may manually manipulate the handle (via linear or rotational actuation, for example) to deploy the medical implant 16. However, it is also contemplated that, in other examples, a clinician may engage one or more selector switches (e.g., buttons) which may active one or more electrically powered motors to actuate and deploy the medical implant 16.

Additionally, in some examples the outer sheath 12 of medical device system 12 may include a curved portion 13. While FIG. 1 shows the curve of the outer member 12 lying within the plane of the page, other configurations are contemplated. For example, configurations in which the curve of the outer member extends out of the page are contemplated.

In use, the medical device system 10 may be advanced percutaneously through the vasculature to a position adjacent to an area of interest and/or a treatment location. For example, in some embodiments, the medical device system 10 may be advanced through the vasculature to a position adjacent to a defective native valve (e.g., aortic valve, mitral valve, etc.). Alternative approaches to treat a defective aortic valve and/or other heart valve(s) are also contemplated with the medical device system 10. During delivery, the medical implant 16 may be generally disposed in an elongated and low profile “delivery” configuration within the lumen and/or a distal end of the outer sheath 12, as seen schematically in FIG. 1, for example. Once positioned, the outer sheath 12 may be retracted relative to the medical implant 16 and/or the inner catheter 14 to expose the medical implant 16. In some instances, the medical implant 16 may be self-expanding such that exposure of the medical implant 16 may deploy the medical implant 16. Alternatively, the medical implant 16 may be expanded/deployed using the medical device handle 17 in order to translate the medical implant 16 into a generally shortened and larger profile “deployed” configuration suitable for implantation within the anatomy. When the medical implant 16 is suitably deployed within the anatomy, the medical device system 10 may be disconnected, detached, and/or released from the medical implant 16 and the medical device system 10 can be removed from the vasculature, leaving the medical implant 16 in place in a “released” configuration.

It can be appreciated that during delivery and/or deployment of an implantable medical device (e.g., the medical implant 16), portions of the medical device system (e.g., the medical device system 10) may be required to be advanced through tortuous and/or narrow body lumens. Therefore, it may be desirable to utilize components and design medical delivery systems (e.g., such as the medical device system 10 and/or other medical devices) that reduce the profile of portions of the medical device while maintaining sufficient strength (compressive, torsional, etc.) and flexibility of the system as a whole.

FIG. 2 illustrates the medical device system 10 in a partially deployed configuration. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the outer sheath 12 of the medical device system 10 has been retracted in a proximal direction to a position proximal of the medical implant 16. In other words, the outer sheath 12 has been retracted (e.g., pulled back) in a proximal direction such that it uncovers the medical device implant 16 from a compact, low-profile delivery position to a partially-deployed position.

In at least some examples contemplated herein, the medical device implant 16 may be designed to self-expand once released from under the outer sheath 12. However, as shown in FIG. 2, the medical device system 10 may be designed such that the implant 16 may be restricted from expanding fully in the radial direction. For example, FIG. 2 shows medical device implant 16 having a partially deployed position denoted as a length “L₁.”

FIG. 2 further illustrates that in some examples, the implant 16 may include one or more support members 22 coupled to the proximal end 18 of the implant 16. Further, FIG. 2 illustrates that in some examples, the implant 16 may include one or more translation members 24 coupled to the distal end 20 of the implant 16. Additionally, in some examples (such as that illustrated in FIG. 2), the translation members 24 and support members 22 may work together to maintain the implant in a partially-deployed position after the outer sheath 12 has been retracted to uncover the implant 16. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates that the support members 22 may be designed such that the distal end of each of the support members 22 may be coupled to the proximal end of the implant 16 and that the proximal end of each of the support members 22 may be coupled to the distal end of the inner catheter 14. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates that the proximal ends of the support members 22 may be attached to a containment fitting 29 which is rigidly fixed to the distal end of the inner catheter 14. It can be further appreciated that in some instances, the support members 22 may be designed to limit the proximal movement of the proximal end 18 of the implant 16 relative to the distal end of the inner catheter 14.

Additionally, the translation members 24 may be designed to translate in a distal-to-proximal direction such that the translation of the translation members (via operator manipulation at the handle, for example) may “pull” the distal end 20 of the implant closer to the proximal end 18 of the implant 16.

For example, FIG. 3 illustrates the distal-to-proximal translation of the translation members 24. It can be appreciated that if the support members 22 limit the proximal movement of the proximal end 18 of the implant 16 while the translation members 24 are translated proximally, the implant 16 may both foreshorten (along the longitudinal axis of the implant 16) and also expand radially outward. The foreshortening and radial expansion of implant 16 can be seen by comparing the shape and position of the implant 16 in FIG. 2 to the shape and position of the implant 16 in FIG. 3. The position of the implant 16 shown in FIG. 3 may be described as a fully deployed positioned of the implant 16 (versus the partially deployed positioned of the implant 16 shown in FIG. 2). Further, FIG. 3 depicts the length of the fully deployed implant 16 as “L₂”, whereby the distance L₂ is less than the distance L₁ shown in FIG. 2.

Additionally, it can be appreciated that the translation members 24 may be designed to be able extend in a proximal-to-distal direction such that they elongate (e.g., lengthen) the implant 16 (along its longitudinal axis). In other words, the implant 16 may be able to shift between a partially deployed position (shown in FIG. 2) and a fully deployed position (shown in FIG. 3) through the translation (either proximal or distal) of the translation members 24 along the longitudinal axis as the support members 22 limit the movement of the proximal end 18 of the implant 16.

It should be noted that the above description and illustrations regarding the arrangement, attachment features and operation of the support members 22 and the translation members 24 as they engage and function relative to the implant 16 is schematic. It can be appreciated that the design (e.g., arrangement, attachment features, operation, etc.) of the both support member 22 and the translation members 24 as they relate and function relative to the implant 16 may vary. For example, it is possible to design, arrange and operate the translation members 24 and the support members 22 in a variety of ways to achieve the partial and full deployment configurations of the implant 16 described herein.

In some examples, an operator may be able to manipulate the translation members 24 via the handle 17. For example, the handle 17 may include an actuation member designed to control the translation of the translation members 24. FIG. 2 illustrates that the handle member 17 may be coupled to the translation members 24 via an actuation shaft 30 and a coupling member 28. Additionally, FIG. 2 further illustrates that a distal end of actuation shaft 30 may be coupled to the proximal end of the coupling member 28. Further, while not shown in FIG. 2, it can be appreciated that the actuation shaft 30 may extend within the entire length of the inner catheter 14 from the coupling member 28 to the handle member 17.

For purposes of discussion herein, the inner catheter 14 may also be referred to as an inner member or liner 14. The liner 14 may include a number of different features shown in the figures described herein. For example, the liner 14 may include a lumen 25. Further, the translation members 24, coupler 28, actuation shaft 30, tubular guidewire member 34 (described below), and grouping coil 32 (described below) may be disposed within the lumen 25. These are just examples. The inner liner 14 may vary in form. For example, the inner liner 14 may include a single lumen, multiple lumens, or lack a lumen.

As described above, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 illustrate the translation of translation members 24 in a distal-to-proximal direction (which shortens and radially expands the implant 16, as described above). However, FIG. 3 further illustrates that translation of the translation members 24 in a distal-to-proximal direction is accomplished by translation of the actuation shaft 30 and coupling member 28 within the lumen 25 of the inner catheter 14. For example, as the actuation shaft 30 is retracted (e.g., pulled proximally within lumen 25 of the inner catheter 14), it retracts the coupling member 28 proximally, which, in turn, retracts the translation members 24 in a proximal direction.

In some instances it may be desirable to maintain translation members 24 in a substantially linear configuration as they are translated within the lumen 25 of the inner catheter 14. In some examples, therefore, medical device system 10 may include a component designed to limit and/or prevent the translation members 24 from twisting around each other within the lumen 25 of the inner catheter 14. For example, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 illustrate the grouping coil 32 wound around the translation members 24 such that the grouping coil 32 maintains the translation members 24 in a substantially liner configuration (and thereby limits and/or prevents the translation members 24 from twisting within lumen 25) as the translation members 24 are translated through the lumen 25 of the inner catheter 14.

FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 further illustrate that the proximal end of the grouping coil 32 may be positioned adjacent the distal end of the coupling member 28 and that the distal end of the grouping coil 32 may be positioned adjacent the distal end of the inner catheter 14. In particular, the distal end of the grouping coil 32 may be prevented from extending distally beyond the distal end of the inner catheter 14 by the containment fitting 29. In other words, the distal end of the grouping coil 32 may contact the containment fitting 29.

It can be further appreciated that the grouping coil 32 may be positioned within the lumen 25 of the inner catheter 14 such that the grouping coil 32 may elongate and shorten (e.g., a length of the grouping coil may adjust) within the lumen 25 of the inner catheter 14. For example, as the coupling member 28 is translated in a proximal direction (shown in FIG. 3 as compared to FIG. 2), the grouping coil 32 may elongate while continuing to group and/or contain the translation members 24 in a substantially linear configuration.

FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 further illustrate that the medical device system 10 may include the tubular guidewire member 34 extending within the lumen 25 of the inner catheter 14. The tubular guidewire member 34 may include a lumen which permits a guidewire to extend and translate therein. In other words, the medical device system 10 may be advanced to a target site within a body over a guidewire extending within the lumen of the tubular guidewire member 34. Further, the tubular guidewire member 34 may extend from the handle member 17, through the lumen 25 of the inner member 14, through the implant 16 and terminate at a nosecone 36.

In some instances, it may be beneficial to keep the distance between the distal end 20 of the implant 16 and the proximal end 21 of the nosecone 36 constant because limiting the distance the nosecone 36 extends into the ventricle during implantation of the implant 16 may reduce the likelihood that the nosecone 36 will perforate surrounding tissue. In other words, retracting the nosecone 36 proximally may pull the nosecone away from surrounding tissue to reduce the likelihood that the nosecone 36 will perforate surrounding tissue.

Therefore, as will be described in greater detail below, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 illustrate that the medical device system 10 may be designed such that as the implant 16 shifts between a partially deployed position (shown in FIG. 2) and a fully deployed position (shown in FIG. 3), the distance between the distal end 20 of the implant 16 and the proximal end 21 of the nosecone 36 may remain constant. In other words, as the implant 16 shifts between a partially deployed position and a fully deployed position, the actuation shaft 30 and the guidewire member 34 may be retracted together (because they may be coupled together, which will be described in greater detail below), thereby maintaining a constant spacing (“Z”) between the distal end 20 of the implant 16 and the proximal end 21 of the nosecone 36.

As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, in some instances the inner catheter 14 may include an exoskeleton 40 disposed along the outer surface of the inner catheter 14. The exoskeleton 40 may be positioned between the outer member 12 and the inner catheter 14. For example, the exoskeleton 40 may be positioned between the inner surface of the outer member 12 and the outer surface of the inner catheter 14. Additionally, a distal end 42 of the exoskeleton 40 may be rigidly fixed with respect to the end region 26 of the inner member 14. In some examples, the distal end 42 of the exoskeleton 40 may be fixed directly to the inner member 14. In other examples, the exoskeleton 40 may be attached to a fitting (not shown) which is fixed directly to the inner member 14. In other instances, a containment fitting 29 (or other similar fitting) may be used to prevent the distal end 42 of the exoskeleton 40 from moving with respect to the end region 26 of inner member 14.

The exoskeleton 40 may include a plurality of discrete members or articulating links. For example, the exoskeleton 40 may include a plurality of bead members 41 and a plurality of barrel members 43. Other discrete members are contemplated that may have differing shapes and/or configurations. In general, the discrete members (e.g., the bead members 41 and the barrel members 43) are engaged with one another and are designed to increase the compression resistance, the tension resistance, or both of the inner catheter 14 while also affording a desirable amount of flexibility and kink resistance such that the inner catheter 14 can be navigated through the anatomy. The bead members 41 and the barrel members 43 may be arranged in a number of different configurations along the inner catheter 14. In at least some instances, the bead members 41 and the barrel members 43 alternate along the inner catheter 14. Other arrangements and/or patterns are contemplated.

It can be appreciated from the above discussion that the outer member 12, the inner shaft 14 (including the exoskeleton 40), the actuation shaft 30 (which is coupled to the translation members 24) and the tubular guidewire member 34 may all extend from a position adjacent the medical implant 16 to a position in which they enter the handle member 17. For example, FIG. 4 illustrates that the outer sheath 12, the inner shaft 14 (including the exoskeleton 40), the actuation shaft 30 (which is coupled to the translation members 24) and the tubular guidewire member 34 may extend from an example medical implant 16 (which may be similar in form and function to the medical implant described above) and enter the distal end 45 of the handle member 17.

In some instances it may be desirable to design the medical device system 10 such that the inner member 14 has a different orientation with respect to outer member 12 than that shown in the illustrations of FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. For example, FIG. 4 illustrates the distal end of the medical device system 10 extending out of the page in a hooked configuration. Further, FIG. 4 illustrates that the inner member 14 may be rotated 90 degrees as compared to the inner member 14 shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. Accordingly, rotation of the inner member 14 may also rotate both the actuation shaft 30 and the tubular guidewire member 34 (positioned within lumen 25 of the inner member 14) such that they are side-by-side (e.g., on a horizontal plane) as they exit the distal end of the handle 17. Viewed from the end of the handle, in some examples the actuation shaft 30 may be on the left, while the tubular guidewire member may be on the right 34 (this is further illustrated in FIG. 5A). In other examples, the actuation shaft 30 may be on the right, while the tubular guidewire member 34 may be on the left. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the actuation shaft 30 is on the right as it exits the distal end of the handle 17, while the tubular guidewire member 34 is on the left. Therefore, the detailed view of FIG. 4 illustrates the tubular guidewire member 34 positioned within the liner 14, whereby the actuation shaft 30 can be conceptualized as being positioned “behind” the tubular guidewire member. However, it can be appreciated that as the distal end of the medical device 10 curves around and points in a proximal direction, the actuation shaft 30 may remain on the outer radius, and therefore, is visible in the non-detailed view of FIG. 4 (while the tubular guidewire member 34 becomes hidden behind the actuation shaft 30).

FIG. 4 further illustrates that in some examples the exoskeleton 40 (described above) may be attached to a compression hypotube 44, a portion of which may be disposed along the inner member 14. In some examples, a portion of the compression hypotube 44 may be positioned over the inner member 14. The hypotube 44 may be aligned with the alternating bead 41 and barrel 43 members of the exoskeleton 40. For example, in some instances the alternating bead 41 and barrel 43 components of the exoskeleton 40 may abut the hypotube 44 at a position within the handle member 17. For example, the detailed view of FIG. 4 shows that a distal end 46 of the compression hypotube 44 may be positioned adjacent to a bead or barrel component 41/43. In other words, the distal end 46 of the compression hypotube 44 may directly engage (e.g., contact) a bead or barrel component 41/43 of the exoskeleton 40. Further, in some examples, the compression hypotube 44 may be rigidly attached (e.g., welded) to the exoskeleton 40. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the compression hypotube 44 may extend into and terminate within the handle member 17.

Additionally, in some examples, the compression hypotube 44 may be welded to the exoskeleton 40 such that the exoskeleton 40 is placed under a compressive load. In other words, the medical device 10 may be manufactured such that the bead and barrel components 41/43 may be compressed against one another to a given load, whereby the distal end of the compression hypotube 44 is then welded to the proximal end of the exoskeleton 40, thereby placing the bead and barrel components 41/43 of the exoskeleton 40 under a fixed compressive load.

As will be discussed in greater detail below, the proximal end of the compressive hypotube 40 may terminate within the exoskeleton seal assembly 54. The exoskeleton seal assembly may be fixed relative to the handle 17, and therefore, it can be appreciated that the exoskeleton 40 may be held under a compressive load as other seal assemblies (e.g., outer sheath seal assembly 52, actuation seal assembly 56, etc.) and other components (e.g., the outer member 12, the actuation shaft 30) are actuated to deploy the implant 16.

It can be appreciated that actuation of the various components (e.g., the outer member 12, the inner shaft 14, the actuation shaft 30 and the tubular guidewire member 34) described above may occur via a variety of actuation mechanisms disposed in handle member 17. It can further be appreciated that the actuation mechanisms may function to move the various tubular components described above relative to one another. Further, each individual actuation mechanism may need to be fluidly sealed to prevent fluid leakage into portions thereof (including components residing therein) which may be damaged or contaminated by contact with fluid.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example telescoping fluid sealing assembly 50. Fluid sealing assembly 50 may include an outer sheath seal assembly 52, an exoskeleton seal assembly 54, an actuation member seal assembly 56 and a guidewire member seal assembly 58, each of which will be described in greater detail below. The outer sheath seal assembly 52 may include a luer lock flushing port 53. The luer lock flushing port 53 may include a check valve 91. It can be appreciated that each of the outer member 12, the inner shaft 14 (including portions of the exoskeleton 40), the actuation shaft 30 and the tubular guidewire member 34 may be coupled to one or more of the outer sheath seal assembly 52, the exoskeleton seal assembly 54, the actuation member seal assembly 56 and the guidewire member seal assembly 58.

In some examples, one or more of the outer sheath seal assembly 52, the exoskeleton seal assembly 54, the actuation member seal assembly 56 and/or the guidewire member seal assembly 58 may be fixed relative to the handle 17. In other examples, however, one or more of the outer sheath seal assembly 52, the exoskeleton seal assembly 54, the actuation member seal assembly 56 and/or the guidewire member seal assembly 58 may be translatable to the handle 17. For example, in some examples the outer sheath seal assembly 52 and the actuation member seal assembly 56 may translate relative to the handle 17, while the exoskeleton seal assembly 54 and the guidewire member seal assembly 58 may be held fixed relative to the handle 17.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example outer sheath seal assembly 52. A described above, the outer sheath seal assembly 52 may include a luer lock flushing port 53. The luer lock flushing port may include a one-way check valve 91. Additionally, outer sheath seal assembly 52 may include a body 59. Additionally, body 59 may include a post 48 extending along in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle member 17. The post 48 may include a cavity 63 into which a proximal end of the outer member 12 may be inserted. Additionally, the post 48 of body 59 may include a threaded region 60.

Outer sheath seal assembly 52 may be designed to seal the outer member 12 while providing a passageway (e.g., lumen) for the compression hypotube 44, the actuation shaft 30 and the tubular guidewire member 34 to extend therewithin (as discussed above, the tubular guidewire member 34 is not visible in FIG. 5 as it is hidden behind the actuation shaft 30). For example, FIG. 5 illustrates that the outer sheath seal assembly 52 may include an outer seal 51. Outer seal 51 may be an O-ring or other similar type seal. As shown in FIG. 5, the outer seal 51 may be positioned between an inner surface of the post 48 of the body 59 and the outer surface of the outer member 12.

Additionally, the outer sheath seal assembly 52 may include a seal nut 47. Seal nut 47 may include a threaded region 61. It can be appreciated that the seal nut 47 may be designed to mate with the post 48. For example, it can be appreciated that the seal nut 47 may be designed to thread onto (e.g., screw onto) the post 48 of the body 59.

FIG. 5 further illustrates that in some examples, the outer member 12 may include a ferrule 49 which may be attached to the outer surface of the outer member 12. In some examples the ferrule 49 may be overmolded onto the outer surface of the outer member 12. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the profile of the outer surface of the ferrule 49 may be designed to mate with a portion of the inner surface of the seal nut 47. It can be further appreciated that the seal nut 47, the ferrule 49, the post 48 and the outer seal 51 may operate cooperatively to prevent fluid from leaking out of the outer sheath seal assembly 52. Specifically, rotation of the seal nut 47 onto the post 48 may translate the ferrule 49 in a distal-to-proximal direction, thereby compressing the outer seal 51 onto the outer surface of the outer member 12.

FIG. 5 further illustrates that the seal assembly 52 may include a threaded back-up ring 57. The back-up ring 57 may be threadably engaged with a mating threaded portion 62 of the body member 59. Threaded back-up ring 57 may be designed to compress a hypotube seal 55 onto the compression hypotube 44. For example, rotation of the back-up ring 57 onto the body 59 may compress the hypotube seal 55 onto the outer surface of the hypotube 44. In at least some examples, the hypotube seal 55 may be an X-ring type seal, however, other seal configurations are contemplated. Utilizing an X-ring seal design for the hypotube seal 55 may reduce frictional forces upon the compression hypotube 44 in instances when the compression hypotube 44 is translated through the hypotube seal 55.

It can be appreciated from the illustration in FIG. 5 and the above discussion that the outer member 12 may terminate within the outer sheath seal assembly 52. Accordingly, it can be further appreciated that actuation of the outer sheath seal assembly 52 may actuate (e.g., shift, translate, move, etc.) the outer sheath 12. While not expressly depicted in the figures, it can be appreciated that the handle 17 may include one or more actuation mechanisms designed to actuate the outer sealing assembly 52, which may shift outer member 12 relative to the hypotube 44, the actuation shaft 30 and the tubular guidewire member 34. Actuation of the outer member 12 may uncover (e.g., partially deploy) the medical device 16 as described above. Additionally, it can be appreciated from FIG. 5 that the seal assembly 52 may translate along (e.g., slide along the outer surface) of the compression hypotube 44.

As discussed above, FIG. 5 further illustrates the actuation shaft 30 and the tubular guidewire member 34 may engage and be coupled together via a coupling component 77. The coupling component 77 may be designed to couple the actuation shaft 30, the tubular guidewire member 34 and the actuation hypotube (e.g., sleeve) 78 together while permitting the tubular guidewire member 34 to extend through at least a portion of the actuation hypotube 78.

FIG. 5A illustrates an example coupling component 177. The coupling component 177 illustrates one example embodiment of the coupling component 77 described above. The coupling component 177 may include a distal end region 186, a proximal end region 187 and a medial (e.g., body) region 188. As will be illustrated below, the coupling component 177 may have a lumen extending therein. It can be appreciated that when the coupling component 177 is aligned within the medical device 10, the distal end region 186 of the coupling component 177 may be positioned closer to the medical implant 16 (shown in FIG. 1, for example) while the proximal end region 187 may be positioned closer to a proximal handle 17 (shown in FIG. 1, for example).

FIG. 5A further illustrates that the distal end region 186 of the coupling component 177 may include one or more channels 189 extending along the distal end region 186. As discussed in greater detail below, it can be appreciated that the channels 189 may be sized to accept an elongate member (e.g., catheter shaft, tubular member, etc.). One or more of the channels 189 may extend either partially or entirely along the length of the distal end region 186.

FIG. 5A further illustrates that the coupling component 177 may include an aperture 190 located along the proximal end region 187. The aperture 190 may extend partially or entirely through the wall thickness defining the proximal end region 187. Additionally, the aperture 190 may be generally oval-shaped. However, this is not intended to be limiting. Rather, the aperture 190 may include a variety of shapes. For example, the aperture 190 may be circular, rectangular, triangular, etc. In some examples, the actuation shaft 30 may be coupled (e.g., affixed, attached, disposed along, etc.) the distal end region 186 of the coupling component 177.

Further, each of the actuation shaft 30 and the tubular guidewire member 34 may be disposed along one of the channels 189 located in the distal end region 186 of the coupling component 177. Additionally, in some examples a portion of the actuation shaft 30 disposed along the distal end region 186 of the coupling component 177 may be welded to the distal end region 186 of the coupling component 177. Additionally, the proximal portion of the actuation hypotube 78 may be engaged with the proximal end region 187 of the coupling component 177. It can be appreciated that the lumen of the actuation hypotube 78 may extend overtop of the proximal end region 187 of the coupling component 177. It can be further appreciated that the inner diameter of the lumen of the actuation hypotube 178 may be sized to provide a snug fit overtop the coupling component 177 and the tubular guidewire member 34.

FIG. 5B illustrates another example coupling component 277. The coupling component 277 illustrates another example embodiment of the coupling component 77 described above. The coupling component 277 may be similar in form and function to the coupling component 177 described above. For example, the coupling component 277 may include a distal end region 286 (including channels 289), a medial region 288 and a proximal end region 287. However, as illustrated in FIG. 5B, the proximal end region 287 of the coupling component 277 may include a collet 293. The collet 293 may include one or more fingers 294 a, 294 b and 294 c (a fourth collet finger 294 d may be included, but may be hidden by the collet fingers 294 a-294 c shown in FIG. 5B). It can be appreciated that the collet fingers 294 a-294 d may be spaced circumferentially around the longitudinal axis of the coupling component 277.

Similar to that described above with respect to collet component 177, each of the actuation shaft 30 and the tubular guidewire member 34 may be disposed along one of the channels 289 located in the distal end region 286 of the coupling component 277. Additionally, in some examples a portion of the actuation shaft 30 disposed along the distal end region 286 of the coupling component 277 may be welded to the distal end region 286 of the coupling component 277.

Additionally, the proximal portion of the actuation hypotube 78 may be engaged with the collet 293 of the coupling component 277. Specifically, it can be appreciated that the lumen of the actuation hypotube 78 may extend overtop of the individual fingers 294 a-294 d of the collet 293. It can be appreciated that the inner diameter of the actuation hypotube 78 may be sized such that it contacts and squeezes the individual fingers 294 a-294 d of the collet 293 down onto the outer surface of the tubular guidewire member 34, thereby coupling (e.g., attach, affix, etc.) the collet 293 to the tubular guidewire member 34. Additionally, it may be desirable to couple (e.g., attach, affix, etc.) the collet 293 to the actuation hypotube 78 such that translation of the actuation hypotube 78 (longitudinally, for example) may translate the coupling component 277 (which, in turn, may translate both the actuation shaft 30 and the tubular guidewire member 34, as described above).

FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate two example coupling components 177, 277, respectively. However, other coupling component designs are contemplated. For example, additional examples of coupling components are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 62/662,971, the entirety of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

In some examples, the outer member 12 of the medical device system 10 may include one or more features which are designed to orient the outer member 12 with the handle 17 in a specific configuration. For example, FIG. 5C illustrates a cross-section of the body 59 taken along line 5C-5C of an example sealing assembly 52 discussed above with respect to FIG. 5. As discussed above, the post 48 may include a cavity 63 designed to accept the proximal end of an example outer member 12 therein. As shown in FIG. 5C, the cavity 63 may include an alignment recess 64, which, along with the overall profile of the cavity 63, is designed to align the curved portion 13 (shown in FIG. 1) of the outer member 12 with the body 59 (which, in turn, is ultimately aligned with the handle 17). Additionally, FIG. 5D shows a cross-section of the proximal end region of the outer member 12. FIG. 5D shows that the outer member 12 may include a rib 65 molded onto the outer surface of the outer member 12. It can be appreciated that the rib 65 may be aligned with the curved portion 13 of the outer member 12. It can further be appreciated that the cross-sectional profile of the proximal end of the outer member 12 matches (e.g., mates with) the profile of cavity 63 (which includes alignment recess 64), discussed above. In other words, positioning the rib 65 within the alignment recess 64 may align the curved portion 13 of the outer member 12 with the handle 17 in a preferred orientation.

Additionally, FIG. 5C illustrates the tubular guidewire member 34 and the actuation shaft 30 positioned within the lumen of the compression hypotube 44. As illustrated in FIG. 5C and described above, the tubular guidewire member 34 and the actuation shaft 30 may be positioned side-by-side, adjacent to one another.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example exoskeleton seal assembly 54. The exoskeleton seal assembly 54 may include an exoskeleton seal body 66 coupled to a back-up ring 80. As discussed above, the exoskeleton seal assembly 54 may be fixed relative to the handle member 17. In other words, the exoskeleton seal body 66 and/or the back-up ring 80 may include one or more features that engage with handle 17, thereby preventing the exoskeleton seal assembly 54 from moving with respect to the handle 17.

The seal body 66 may include a distal end 71 and a proximal end 82. Further, the seal body 66 may include a lumen 83 extending through a portion or the full length of the seal body 66. Further, the back-up ring 80 may include a distal end 68 and a proximal end 69. As shown in FIG. 6, the proximal end 82 of the seal body 66 may engage with the distal end 68 of the back-up ring 80. For example, the back-up ring 80 may be threadably engaged with a mating threaded portion (not shown in FIG. 6) of the seal body 66. In other words, the proximal end 82 of the seal body 66 may include one or more threads which are designed to mate with one or more threads of the back-up ring 80. Threaded engagement of the seal body 66 to the back-up ring 80 is not intended to be limiting. Rather, other engagement methods and/or designs are contemplated. For example, the back-up ring 80 may be engaged with the seal body 66 via a press fit.

FIG. 6 further illustrates that the compression hypotube 44 may extend into and terminate within the seal body 66. The proximal end of the compression hypotube 44 may be securely fixed to the distal end of the seal body 66. For example, FIG. 6 illustrates the proximal end of the compression hypotube 44 extending into a bore 85 located along the distal end 71 of the seal body 66. In some examples, the compression hypotube 44 may be welded to the distal end 71 of the seal body 66. FIG. 6 further illustrates the tubular guidewire member 34 extending within the lumen 76 of the actuation hypotube 78.

FIG. 6 further illustrates that the actuation hypotube 78 may extend within a portion of the lumen 83 of the exoskeleton seal assembly 54. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the actuation hypotube 78 may terminate within the actuation seal assembly 56. Further, the actuation hypotube 78 may translate relative to the exoskeleton seal assembly 54. FIG. 6 further illustrates that the tubular guidewire member 34 may extend within the lumen 76 of the actuation hypotube 78. Additionally, as will be described in greater detail below, FIG. 6 illustrates that the distal end of the guidewire hypotube 90 may terminate with the lumen 76 of the actuation hypotube 78. The guidewire hypotube 90 may be positioned between inner surface of the actuation hypotube 78 and the outer surface of the tubular guidewire member 34.

Additionally, FIG. 6 illustrates that the threaded back-up ring 80 may be designed to compress a seal 81 onto the actuation hypotube 78. For example, rotation of the back-up ring 80 may compress the seal 81 onto the outer surface of the actuation hypotube 78. In at least some examples, the seal 81 may be an X-ring type seal, however, other seal configurations are contemplated. Utilizing an X-ring seal design for the seal 81 may reduce frictional forces upon the actuation hypotube 78 in instances when the actuation hypotube 78 is translated through the seal 81.

FIG. 6 further illustrates that the exoskeleton seal body 66 may include a first alignment surface 89 a and/or a second alignment surface 89 b. The first and second alignment surfaces 89 a/89 b may be utilized to align the exoskeleton seal body 66 in a specific orientation relative to the handle 17. It can be appreciated that aligning the seal body 66 relative to the handle 17 will also align anything attached to the seal body 66 in the same orientation relative to the handle. For example, it is contemplated that the compression hypotube 44 may be coupled to other components, elements, features, etc. Accordingly, it can be further contemplated that the first and second alignment surfaces 89 a/89 b may not only align the compression hypotube 44 relative to the handle 17, but would also align the components, elements, features, etc. coupled to the compression hypotube 44 relative to the handle 17. Additionally, it can be appreciated that aligning the seal body 66 relative to the handle 17 may also align the compression hypotube 44 (and components, elements, features, etc. coupled to the compression hypotube 44) with other features of the medical device 10 (such as the curved portion 13 of the outer sheath 12).

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of taken along line 6A-6A of the exoskeleton seal assembly 54 shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 6A illustrates the exoskeleton seal body 66 including the first alignment surface 89 a and the second alignment surface 89 b. Additionally, the seal body 66 shows the actuation hypotube 78 and the tubular guidewire member 34 extending within the lumen 83 of the seal body 66. It can be appreciated from FIG. 6 that the first alignment surface 89 a and the second alignment surface 89 b may include substantially horizontal flat surfaces extending across a majority of the diameter of the seal body 66.

FIG. 7 illustrates another example exoskeleton seal assembly 354. The exoskeleton seal assembly 354 may be similar in form and function to the exoskeleton seal assembly 54 described with respect to FIG. 6. For example, the exoskeleton seal assembly 354 may include an exoskeleton seal body 366 coupled to a back-up ring 380. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 6, the exoskeleton seal assembly 354 may be fixed relative to the handle member 17. In other words, the exoskeleton seal body 366 and/or the back-up ring 380 may include one or more features that engage with handle 17, thereby preventing the exoskeleton seal assembly 354 from moving with respect to the handle 17. Further, similar to the exoskeleton seal assembly 54, the exoskeleton seal assembly 354 may include an actuation hypotube 378 which is similar in form and function to the actuation hypotube 78 described above.

Additionally, FIG. 7 illustrates that the exoskeleton seal assembly 354 may include a compression hypotube 344. Further, the compression hypotube 354 may include a first compression tubular member 367 and a second compression tubular member 368. As will be described in greater detail below, at least a portion of the first compression tubular member 367 may be positioned within the lumen of the second compression tubular member 368. For example, in some instances, the first compression tubular member 367 may be concentric to the second compression tubular member 368.

In some instances, the first compression tubular member 367 may be fixedly attached to the second compression tubular member 368. However, in other instances, the first compression tubular member 367 may be free from the second compression tubular member 368. In other words, in some examples, the first tubular member 367 may be able to translate and/or rotate with respect to the second tubular member 368.

FIG. 7 illustrates that, in some examples, the first compression tubular member 367 may extend in a proximal direction and terminate in a recess 374 located in the exoskeleton seal body 366. In other words, the proximal end of the first compression tubular member 367 may extend beyond the proximal end of the second compression tubular member 368, whereby it is fixedly attached to the exoskeleton seal body 366 within the recess 374.

FIG. 7 further illustrates that the exoskeleton seal body 366 may include an aperture 372 which permits the passing (e.g., exiting) of electrical wires 369 (e.g., flex circuits, electrical members, conductors, etc.) from a position inside the exoskeleton seal body 366 to a position outside the exoskeleton seal body 366. The aperture 372 may extend through the wall of the exoskeleton seal body 366. Further, the aperture 372 may be filled with an epoxy (or similar material), thereby sealing the interior of the exoskeleton seal body 366 from fluid surrounding the outer surface of the exoskeleton seal body 366.

As shown in FIG. 7 (and further illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9), the electrical wires 369 may extend between the first compression tubular member 367 and the second compression tubular member 368 along the entire length of the compression hypotube 344. It can be appreciated that the first compression tubular member 367 may shield (e.g., isolate, partition, etc.) the electrical wires 369 from movement of the actuation hypotube 378. Additionally, the first compression tubular member 367 may act as a “force reducing surface” to minimize potential friction forces generated between the relative movement of the first compression tubular member 367 and the actuation hypotube 378. Similarly, the second compression tubular member 368 may act to minimize potential friction forces generated between the relative movement of the second compression tubular member 368 and the outer sheath seal assembly 52.

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 8, the compression hypotube 344 may include the first compression tubular member 367 positioned within the lumen of the second compression tubular member 368. As described above, the first compression tubular member 367 may be positioned concentrically relative to the second compression tubular member 368. Further, FIG. 8 illustrates the electrical wires 369 positioned between the outer surface of the first compression tubular member 367 and the inner surface of the second compression tubular member 368. It can be appreciated that while FIG. 8 illustrates a space (e.g., gap) between the outer surface of the first compression tubular member 367 and the inner surface of the second compression tubular member 368, it is contemplated the outer surface of the first compression tubular member 367 may contact (and/or be directed attached to) the inner surface of the second compression tubular member 368.

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 of another example compression hypotube 444. The example compression hypotube 444 may be similar in form and function as the compression hypotube 344 described above. For example, the compression hypotube 444 may include a first compression tubular member 467 positioned within the lumen of a second compression hypotube 468.

Additionally, FIG. 9 illustrates that, in some examples, the first compression tubular member 467 may include a channel (e.g., groove, etc.) designed to accept the electrical wires 469. The channel may be shaped in a variety of configurations, all of which may be designed to create a space in which the electrical wires 469 can be positioned between the outer surface of the first compression tubular member 467 and the inner surface of the second compression tubular member 468. It can be appreciated that the channel may extend along either a portion or the entire length of the first compression hypotube 467. Further, it can be appreciated that the channel may align with the aperture 372 of the exoskeleton seal body 366.

Additionally, while not shown in FIG. 7, it is contemplated that the first compression tubular member 467 and/or the second compression tubular member 468 may include one or more “orienting” features which are designed to align the first compression tubular member 467 with the second compression tubular member 468 and/or align any of the features of the first compression tubular member 467 (e.g., the channel) and/or the second compression tubular member 468 with one or more features of the exoskeleton seal body 366 (or any other component of the medical system 10). For example, the first compression tubular member 467 and/or the second compression tubular member 468 may include one or more features which are designed to align the channel with the aperture 372 of the exoskeleton seal body 366.

In some examples, the first compression tubular member 367/467 and/or the second compression tubular member 368/468 may be formed from a variety of materials. For example, the first compression tubular member 367/467 and/or the second compression tubular member 368/468 may be formed from a metal, polymer or any combination thereof. In some instances, the first compression tubular member 367/467 may include a flexible liner, which is designed to provide a lubricious layer between the electrical wires 369 and the actuation hypotube 378.

FIG. 10 illustrates the actuation member sealing assembly 56. The actuation sealing assembly 56 may include an actuation seal body 92 and a back-up ring 86. The actuation seal body 92 may include a distal end 93, a proximal end 94 and a lumen 95 extending therethrough. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the actuation hypotube 78 may enter and terminate within a bore 75 positioned along the distal end 93 of the actuation seal body 92.

Similar to that described above, the back-up ring 86 utilized in the actuation member seal assembly 56 may be may be threadably engaged with a mating threaded portion (not shown in FIG. 10) of the actuation seal body 92. In other words, the proximal end of the seal body 92 may include one or more threads which are designed to mate with one or more threads of the back-up ring 86. Threaded engagement of the seal body 92 to the back-up ring 86 is not intended to be limiting. Rather, other engagement methods and/or designs are contemplated. For example, the back-up ring 86 may be engaged with the seal body 92 via a press fit.

Additionally, FIG. 10 illustrates that the threaded back-up ring 86 may be designed to compress a seal 88 onto the actuation hypotube 78. For example, rotation of the back-up ring 86 may compress the seal 88 onto the outer surface of the actuation hypotube 78. In at least some examples, the seal 88 may be an X-ring type seal, however, other seal configurations are contemplated. Utilizing an X-ring seal design for the seal 88 may reduce frictional forces upon the actuation hypotube 78 in instances when the actuation hypotube 78 is translated through the seal 88.

As discussed above, the actuation hypotube 78 may be coupled to the actuation shaft 30 and the tubular guidewire member 34 via the coupling component 77 (described above with respect to FIG. 5). Further, the actuation shaft 30 may be coupled via coupler 28 (shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3) to the translation members 24 while the tubular guidewire member 34 may be coupled to the nosecone 36. Therefore, it can be appreciated that actuation of the actuation seal assembly 56 (and, correspondingly, the actuation hypotube 78 which is also coupled to the coupling component 77) in a distal-to-proximal direction may actuate both the translation members 24 and the nosecone 36 in a distal-to-proximal direction. As discussed above, the distal-to-proximal movement of the translation members 24 may shift the implant 16 from its length “L₁” illustrated in FIG. 2 to its length “L₂” illustrated in FIG. 3. In some instances, the distal-to-proximal movement of the actuation seal assembly 56 may be controlled via handle 17 (not shown in FIG. 10).

FIG. 10 further illustrates the guidewire hypotube 90 extending within the lumen 95 of the actuation seal assembly 56. The guidewire hypotube 90 may be a stationary hypotube. In other words, in some examples the guidewire hypotube 90 may rigidly fixed relative (e.g., remain in a fixed position) relative to the handle member 17 (not shown in FIG. 10). Additionally, it can be appreciated that the guidewire hypotube 90 may extend into a lumen 76 of the actuation hypotube 78. Therefore, it may be further appreciated that as the actuation seal assembly 56 is actuated (as discussed above), the actuation hypotube 78 may travel along the outer surface of the guidewire hypotube 90.

FIG. 11 illustrates the guidewire tubing sealing assembly 58. The guidewire sealing assembly 58 may include a guidewire sealing body 97. The guidewire sealing body 97 may be rigidly fixed to the handle member 17 (not shown in FIG. 11). Further, the guidewire sealing body 97 may include a lumen 98 extending therethrough. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the guidewire sealing body 97 may be coupled to the proximal guidewire tube 90. In some examples, the proximal guidewire tube 90 may be welded (e.g., hermetically welded) to a portion of the guidewire sealing body 97

Additionally, FIG. 11 illustrates that the tubular guidewire member 34 may terminate at a position within the lumen of the guidewire hypotube 90. For example, FIG. 11 illustrates the tubular guidewire member 34 terminating in the lumen 96 of the guidewire hypotube 90.

Additionally, it can be appreciated from FIG. 11 that the lumen 98 of the guidewire sealing body 97 may be in fluid communication with the lumen 96 of the proximal guidewire tube 90. This fluid communication path may permit a guidewire (not shown) to be inserted through the guidewire sealing body 97 and into the lumen 96 of the proximal guidewire tube 90. Additionally, FIG. 11 illustrates the guidewire sealing body 97 includes a guidewire sealing channel 99 having a diameter depicted as “X.” It can be appreciated that in at least some examples, the diameter “X” may be designed to permit a guidewire to pass therethrough while also providing minimum clearance such that fluid is not permitted to pass therethrough. In other words, the clearance between the outer diameter of a guidewire (not shown) and the diameter “X” of the channel 99 may be designed to prevent fluid from leaking out of the guidewire sealing body 97.

The materials that can be used for the various components of the medical devices and/or system 10 disclosed herein may include those commonly associated with medical devices. However, this is not intended to limit the devices and methods described herein, as the discussion may be applied to other components of the medical devices and/or systems 10 disclosed herein including the various shafts, liners, components described relative thereto.

The medical device 10 may be made from a metal, metal alloy, polymer (some examples of which are disclosed below), a metal-polymer composite, ceramics, combinations thereof, and the like, or other suitable material. Some examples of suitable polymers may include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polyoxymethylene (POM, for example, DELRIN® available from DuPont), polyether block ester, polyurethane (for example, Polyurethane 85A), polypropylene (PP), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyether-ester (for example, ARNITEL® available from DSM Engineering Plastics), ether or ester based copolymers (for example, butylene/poly(alkylene ether) phthalate and/or other polyester elastomers such as HYTREL® available from DuPont), polyamide (for example, DURETHAN® available from Bayer or CRISTAMID® available from Elf Atochem), elastomeric polyamides, block polyamide/ethers, polyether block amide (PEBA, for example available under the trade name PEBAX®), ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers (EVA), silicones, polyethylene (PE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), polyester, Marlex high-density polyethylene, Marlex low-density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene (for example REXELL®), ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polytrimethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyimide (PI), polyetherimide (PEI), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), poly paraphenylene terephthalamide (for example, KEVLAR®), polysulfone, nylon, nylon-12 (such as GRILAMID® available from EMS American Grilon), perfluoro(propyl vinyl ether) (PFA), ethylene vinyl alcohol, polyolefin, polystyrene, epoxy, polyvinylidene chloride (PVdC), poly(styrene-b-isobutylene-b-styrene) (for example, SIBS and/or SIBS 50A), polycarbonates, ionomers, biocompatible polymers, other suitable materials, or mixtures, combinations, copolymers thereof, polymer/metal composites, and the like. In some embodiments the sheath can be blended with a liquid crystal polymer (LCP).

Some examples of suitable metals and metal alloys include stainless steel, such as 304V, 304L, and 316LV stainless steel; mild steel; nickel-titanium alloy such as linear-elastic and/or super-elastic nitinol; other nickel alloys such as nickel-chromium-molybdenum alloys (e.g., UNS: N06625 such as INCONEL® 625, UNS: N06022 such as HASTELLOY® C-22®, UNS: N10276 such as HASTELLOY® C276®, other HASTELLOY® alloys, and the like), nickel-copper alloys (e.g., UNS: N04400 such as MONEL® 400, NICKELVAC® 400, NICORROS® 400, and the like), nickel-cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys (e.g., UNS: R30035 such as MP35-N® and the like), nickel-molybdenum alloys (e.g., UNS: N10665 such as HASTELLOY® ALLOY B2®), other nickel-chromium alloys, other nickel-molybdenum alloys, other nickel-cobalt alloys, other nickel-iron alloys, other nickel-copper alloys, other nickel-tungsten or tungsten alloys, and the like; cobalt-chromium alloys; cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys (e.g., UNS: R30003 such as ELGILOY®, PHYNOX®, and the like); platinum enriched stainless steel; titanium; combinations thereof; and the like; or any other suitable material.

In at least some embodiments, portions or all of the medical device 10 may also be doped with, made of, or otherwise include a radiopaque material. Radiopaque materials are understood to be materials capable of producing a relatively bright image on a fluoroscopy screen or another imaging technique during a medical procedure. This relatively bright image aids the user of the medical device 10 in determining its location. Some examples of radiopaque materials can include, but are not limited to, gold, platinum, palladium, tantalum, tungsten alloy, polymer material loaded with a radiopaque filler, and the like. Additionally, other radiopaque marker bands and/or coils may also be incorporated into the design of the medical device 10 to achieve the same result.

In some embodiments, a degree of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) compatibility is imparted into the medical device 10. For example, the medical device 10 may include a material that does not substantially distort the image and create substantial artifacts (e.g., gaps in the image). Certain ferromagnetic materials, for example, may not be suitable because they may create artifacts in an MRI image. The medical device 10 may also be made from a material that the MRI machine can image. Some materials that exhibit these characteristics include, for example, tungsten, cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys (e.g., UNS: R30003 such as ELGILOY®, PHYNOX®, and the like), nickel-cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys (e.g., UNS: R30035 such as MP35-N® and the like), nitinol, and the like, and others. 

What is claimed:
 1. A system for delivering an implantable medical device, comprising: a handle member including a seal assembly, wherein the seal assembly includes: an outer sheath seal assembly coupled to an outer sheath, the outer sheath seal assembly being translatable relative to the handle; a first fixed seal assembly fixed relative to the handle, the first fixed seal assembly including a first alignment surface; and a compression shaft coupled to the first fixed seal assembly; wherein the first alignment surface is designed to align the compression shaft with at least a portion of the outer sheath; wherein the outer sheath seal assembly includes a first seal, and wherein the first seal is disposed along an outer surface of the outer sheath; wherein the outer sheath seal assembly includes a second seal, and wherein the second seal is disposed along an outer surface of the compression shaft.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first fixed seal assembly is positioned proximal of the outer sheath seal assembly.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the seal assembly further includes an actuation seal assembly positioned proximal of the first fixed seal assembly, the actuation seal assembly translatable relative to the handle, and wherein actuation of the actuation seal assembly is designed to shift the implantable medical device between a first position and a second expanded position.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the seal assembly further includes a second fixed seal assembly fixed relative to the handle and positioned proximal of the actuation seal assembly.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the system further includes an actuation shaft coupled to the actuation seal assembly, and wherein the actuation shaft extends at least partially within a lumen of the first fixed seal assembly.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the first fixed seal assembly includes a third seal, and wherein the third seal is disposed along an outer surface of the actuation shaft.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the system further includes a guidewire shaft coupled to the second fixed seal assembly, and wherein the guidewire shaft extends at least partially within a lumen of the actuation seal assembly.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the actuation seal assembly includes a fourth seal, and wherein the fourth seal is disposed along an outer surface of the guidewire shaft.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the outer sheath includes a curved portion, and wherein the first alignment surface is designed to align the compression shaft with the curved portion of the outer sheath.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the outer sheath includes a projection, wherein the projection is aligned with the curved portion of the outer sheath, and wherein the outer sheath seal assembly includes a recess designed to engage with the projection.
 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the compression shaft extends at least partially within a lumen of the outer sheath seal assembly.
 12. A system for delivering an implantable medical device, comprising: a handle member including a seal assembly, wherein the seal assembly includes: an outer sheath seal assembly coupled to an outer sheath, the outer sheath seal assembly being translatable relative to the handle; a first fixed seal assembly fixed relative to the handle, the first fixed seal assembly including a first alignment surface; and a compression shaft coupled to the first fixed seal assembly; wherein the first alignment surface is designed to align the compression shaft with at least a portion of the outer sheath; wherein the outer sheath seal assembly includes a first seal, and wherein the first seal is disposed along an outer surface of the outer sheath; wherein the compression shaft extends at least partially within a lumen of the outer sheath seal assembly; wherein the outer sheath seal assembly includes a second seal, and wherein the second seal is disposed along an outer surface of the compression shaft.
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the system further includes an actuation shaft coupled to the actuation seal assembly, and wherein the actuation shaft extends at least partially within a lumen of the first fixed seal assembly.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the first fixed seal assembly includes a third seal, and wherein the third seal is disposed along an outer surface of the actuation shaft.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the system further includes a guidewire shaft coupled to the second fixed seal assembly, and wherein the guidewire shaft extends at least partially within a lumen of the actuation seal assembly.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the actuation seal assembly includes a fourth seal, and wherein the fourth seal is disposed along an outer surface of the guidewire shaft.
 17. A system for delivering an implantable medical device, comprising: a handle member including a seal assembly, wherein the seal assembly includes: an outer sheath seal assembly coupled to an outer sheath, the outer sheath seal assembly being translatable relative to the handle; a first fixed seal assembly fixed relative to the handle, the first fixed seal assembly including a first alignment surface; and a compression shaft coupled to the first fixed seal assembly; wherein the first alignment surface is designed to align the compression shaft with at least a portion of the outer sheath; wherein the outer sheath includes a curved portion, and wherein the first alignment surface is designed to align the compression shaft with the curved portion of the outer sheath. 